support of charitable organisations.

Speaking at Hamilton Rotarians' weekly luncheon yesterday, Ms Jones said the public can support MOW with not just their money, but their time as well.

And she described MOW's day-to-day operations, including cooking and delivering meals to needy people around the Island.

Operating four days a week, MOW requires 128 volunteers on a weekly basis.

Five cooks arrive at 8.30 a.m. and delivery volunteers arrive at 11.15 a.m.

Three dishwashers arrive soon after lunch.

"As an organisation, we feel very fortunate not only to have our own premises, but also to have such wonderful support from these generous volunteers who make a commitment of their time and often the use of their own cars,'' Ms Jones said.

And she suggested that businesses could grant certain employees extended lunch hours on a weekly or bi-weekly basis so that they could assist MOW to deliver meals throughout the Island.

"This is a new idea and MOW would be very happy to give it a try if anyone is interested,'' she said.

"We are always glad to have offers of new volunteers, as the regular ones go on holiday, get a job and go back to work or have family responsibilities.'' The organisation operates 12 routes and she said just two hours was needed to deliver on each route.

MOW was originally inspired by similar services in Canada and the United States.

Ms Jones has been involved with MOW since its inception in October 1975 when meals were prepared by the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and delivered to 15 people three days a week.

"I have seen it grow from a small tentative group of enthusiasts to a secure, well-organised volunteer organisation,'' she said.

The organisation now operates its own facility on South Road, Paget and provides between 140 and 150 lunches to needy seniors four days a week.